Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I first tried this Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of creamy white beans and zesty lemon creates a dish that feels light yet satisfying. We often have it on busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress. It's quick to whip up and loaded with flavor, making it the perfect recipe for those who crave a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:01:20.720Z

I remember the first time I decided to make this dish for my family. I wanted something that felt indulgent but was also healthy. The secret lies in using the white beans as a creamy base, which not only adds protein but also a velvety texture that complements the bright lemon.

Each time I prepare this pasta, I love experimenting with fresh herbs, so don’t hesitate to add some basil or parsley to brighten it up even more. It’s a flexible recipe that welcomes creativity and personal touches, making it a favorite in our home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture from white beans that brings comfort to every bite
Bright and refreshing lemon flavor that awakens your taste buds
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the white beans, which contribute not only creaminess but also protein and fiber, making this pasta a satisfying vegetarian option. I prefer using cannellini beans for their mild flavor and creamy texture, but you could also try great northern beans if that's what you have on hand. Make sure to drain and rinse your beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid, which can sometimes affect the final flavor of the dish.

The freshness of the lemon zest and juice is crucial, as it adds that bright, zesty note that balances the creaminess of the beans. For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice over bottled, as the latter can sometimes taste dull. The citrus oils in the zest also enhance the overall aroma of the dish, elevating it to a truly delightful experience. If you're in a pinch, lime juice can be an interesting substitute, although it will provide a different flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the pasta, make sure your water is at a rolling boil and generously salted to ensure that the pasta has enough flavor. Cook the pasta just until al dente; it should have a slight bite to it. This is important because it will continue to cook a bit when tossed with the sauce. Reserving some pasta water is key to achieving the right consistency, so don’t skip this step. The starchy water helps to emulsify and bind the sauce to the pasta beautifully.

While sautéing the garlic, be careful not to let it burn, as it can turn bitter if cooked too long. You want it to become fragrant and slightly golden, which usually takes just 1-2 minutes over medium heat. If you're using garlic powder as a substitute, add it along with the beans to ensure it cooks gently and fully infuses its flavor without overpowering the dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preference. Enjoy your meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the drained white beans, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir well and mash some of the beans to create a creamy texture.

Mix in Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adjusting creaminess with extra pasta water if needed.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, you can blend half of the white beans with a little water before adding them to the skillet. This gives the sauce an even smoother consistency!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta is incredibly forgiving when it comes to make-ahead preparations. You can cook the pasta and sauce components separately; just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. The pasta will last up to three days, while the bean sauce can be stored for about a week. When you're ready to serve, simply heat the sauce in a skillet, add a splash of reserved pasta water, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta reheats well. Just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit more pasta water to maintain creaminess. If you notice that the dish is a bit dry after reheating, adding fresh lemon juice can revive its brightness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While this pasta is delicious on its own, you can elevate it by adding seasonal vegetables. Think about tossing in sautéed spinach or arugula just before serving for added nutrition and color. Grilled zucchini or asparagus would also complement the flavors beautifully. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta cheese can enhance the creaminess even further, providing a delightful contrast to the lemon.

If you're looking for a heartier meal, try serving this dish alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the creaminess of the pasta. You could also serve it with crusty bread to scoop up the sauce, making dinner feel even more satisfying!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta variety.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan, relying on plant-based ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish, but it's best to store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture.